It’s the second time I’ve encountered Jeremy Adams’ departure from a Flash book, and I must say, DC Comics should reconsider this practice. Adams’ optimistic perspective shines through his characters’ voices, a trait that resonates perfectly with the Flash characters. In my opinion, the Flashes are the most positive and spirited heroes in the DC Universe. I’ll also miss the additional appearances of the Justice Society of America characters, as Adams and artist Diego Olortegui have skillfully integrated them to aid the Garrick family. So, how does this miniseries wrap up a portion of the New Golden Age from DC?
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Ideally, the Jay Garrick: The Flash miniseries hit many excellent points to bring the New Golden Age to the forefront of the DC Universe. When this series gets collected as a trade paperback and the trade-waiters get a hold of it, they will have an entertaining, excellent adventure. Some fans have felt that the Lost Children event brought in way too many heroes for DC Comics. While that can be true to a point, luckily, some of the characters have found outlets to show their need for existence. Judy Garrick is a beautiful addition to the JSA as she is a legacy character that helps the Flash and Garrick family move forward, but also has that excellent “character out of time” vibe to them, which has been fun to witness when she teams up with Stargirl to hit up a mall.
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Back to the issue at hand: In issue #5, we witnessed Doctor Elemental kidnap Judy, which gave readers quite a different look at Jay Garrick. That of an angry, wanting father, and from our preview, you can see that attitude continues with this issue. I know I said I see the Flashes as the positive character, yet don’t cross them, as you’ll be lightning-struck. Jay Garrick is wearing his emotions on his sleeve thanks to Diego Olortegui as he gives such expression to Jay’s face. Even more, Olortegui shows Jay using his powers not as gracefully as before; instead, he is a wild tornado searching the globe for his daughter. This adventure is Taken but with Speed Force.
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Yes, Jay gets most of the spotlight in this issue, yet we can see how crazy Doctor Elemental is with his thoughts and plans, as he is willing to send so many people to the grave to create his “better human race.” I know I have moments where I get upset when heroes’ origins are changed, but I will say Jeremy Adams did great by adding to the origin and not subtracting. Everything is still the way it was with Jay, but now we have a vile villain in Doctor Elemental, a.k.a. Professor Hughes, an awesome addition to the JSA rogues gallery. The madman puts Jay in a horrible situation, choosing to save his daughter or all of humanity. Still, luckily, the Flashes are brilliant, and Jay goes back to his scientific roots to achieve a better outcome. Overall, this creative team delivered a fantastic adventure with the promise of more. Hopefully, we will see Adams and Olortegui continue working with the Flash and JSA as they make them all look golden.
Adams, Olortegui, and company give the Garrick family an excellent spotlight that showcases their powers and bond. Just recently reunited and then torn apart by vile Doctor Elemental leads us to an entertaining exploit reminding us that you shouldn’t forget about Jay when it comes to Flashes. JSA guest stars, crazy villains, and a wonderful family will explain why the promise of the New Golden Age must continue at DC Comics.
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